'What is taking her so long?'
At the camp, Arlan was growing impatient.
Given his inhuman senses, the prince had long known that the royal entourage was not traveling alone. There were about thirty armed tribesmen native to the Southern Jungle, hiding among the trees, lingering near the main road, observing them
These tribes would stay invisible and harmless towards travelers who respected the jungle etiquette, which included not entering marked territory or touching tribal resources.
Just then, there was a sudden disturbance. Horses neighed restlessly, as if scared of something. Arlan left his carriage and knights went on full alert, circling the camp in a defensive formation.
Everyone wondered what happened, and a few of the knights went to check on the horses.
"Ahh, snake!"
"Chop it!"
"Drive it away—"
A poisonous snake approached where the horses were tied, causing them to panic.
